Cocktails anyone? If the birthday girl is a lover of martinis, mojitos or daiquiri’s, around (or three) of sundowners from Artcaffe’s generous cocktail menu will certainly satisfy. With a dynamic view of bustling Westlands, Artcaffe Oval tops the list as one of Nairobi’s most scenic balcony bars – perfect for sundowners. On that note, Artcaffe offers a fantastic 2 for 1 cocktail special between 4 pm and 7 pm every day.

If you’re looking to treat your buddy to a finer affair then a swanky evening at The Balcony Bar couldn’t be more fitting. Either side you sit on, The Balcony Bar is chic and luxurious. Dip into their extensive whisky menu in the main bar area or simply soak in the oaky ambience that the private Cigar room offers. This is perfect as one of the restaurants for birthday parties. The guys will love it.

Craft beers, a jovial crowd and good music? If Brew Bistro is where you intend on starting your evening then don’t leave without tackling one of their hearty burgers or steaks. Try to make it on Tuesday or Thursday evenings when the live band is playing – they’ll be happy to do a much more melodic version of Happy Birthday. If a fun night out is what you’re after then definitely pop in on weekend nights, after 9 pm. Order a few plates of tapas—Belgian fries and chicken wings recommended—and tackle a round of Big Five Breweries’ award-winning beers.

The room that houses Sankara’s sweetest treats is dimly lit with glass walls and comfy couches. Their gourmet tarts are something to be admired not only in flavour but in appearance as well. Share a pot of tea and tuck into delicious baked goods made by their in-house pastry chef. Is tea not enough? Then order a glass of wine from their fantastic wine menu to top it all off.

A trip out to the beautiful suburb of Karen is never a bad idea. A trip out to an even more beautiful hotel overlooking Ngong hills and the leafy Karen expense is a fantastic idea. Get dolled up and head to the grand and airy Hemingways Hotel for an afternoon of tea, tasty treats and a delightful lunch. Finish it off with a visit to their gorgeous spa to make it extra special.

Pango joins the list of restaurants for birthday parties. A stroll through Pango’s famous underground wine cellar will definitely set the tone for the meal ahead. Be it for lunch or supper, the talented cooks at Pango Brasserie will leave your taste buds in awe. Designed in the style of a rustic, countryside bistro, Pango is great for catching up and expressing your appreciation for the birthday girl/boy.

Does the birthday boy happen to be a huge sports fan? Then why not watch a game over a few whiskies and beers in an upmarket environment. Que Pasa is a warm and inviting space perfect for bonding with the guys. Share a few of their pizzas, mussels and any of Chef Anthony’s delectable creations.

Arguably one of Nairobi’s best seafood destinations, tastefully designed with an upmarket maritime ambience and a menu to suit and thrill different palates. Who wouldn’t want to spend their birthday indulging in mouthwatering creations from award-winning Chef Kiran Jethwa? Start off at their cosy bar—ideal for tipsy conversation—and be guided to the perfect glass with their instructive and colourful wine menu, sample their well-crafted cocktails or take a pick from their many beers and spirits.

Rumoured to be Nairobi’s most consistent restaurant in dining excellence and service, who would be upset about a birthday meal Talisman? Nobody. Between their famed feta and coriander samosas, perfect pasta, expertly-made steaks and seafood and affordable glasses of bubbly, it’s always a culinary joy to visit. The leafy setting and Moroccan-themed décor make it a truly magical place to go.

The Wine Shop

Nothing says ladies night better than the sound of wine glugging into glasses amidst side-splitting conversation. Experience The Wine Shop’s global wine selection with bottles hailing from South Africa, Australia, USA, France and Italy. Their tapas menu features fresh and unique items—like squid ink breadsticks—that will surprise, delight and keep you satisfied throughout the evening.

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